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Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Every once in a while people start talking about my favorite movie, Back to the Future, once again.

It's been 25 years since Marty McFly drove a DeLorean well above the speed limit and into his parents' past as well as cinematic history. That's cause for some celebration, unfolding appropriately to match the timeline (no pun intended) of the first film.

While originally released as a 1985 summer blockbuster, (sadly I missed the opportunity to see the original release in theaters), I definitely associate BTTF with fall. It's a fantastic "high school movie," with a pivotal plot event being the Enchantment Under the Sea Dance (arguably Hill Valley High School's Homecoming Dance.) I always enjoy coming-of-age movies most during autumn, while I reflect on my own high school and college experiences. Further, the film takes place during the fall. On October 26th, 1985, Marty traveled back in time to November 5, 1955, when he stayed through November 12, 1955, the night when a bolt of lightening sent him "Back to the Future." Because the film takes place in late October/early November, I love to watch it at this time of year, preferably on a rainy Saturday night to match the one in the movie.

I hope to write a review of the movie and how it has impacted me, to be posted shortly. Until then, these are some of my favorite articles commemorating the film's 25th anniversary:

Friday, October 8, 2010

So this week I spread myself even thinner by joining two more blogs. I already have this site, a Twitter, and a Tumblr, along with a plethora of work blogs, sites and social media accounts to which I contribute. One would question my sanity in committing to even more online time, but I'm an addict and these opportunities were too good to pass up.

First, I was delighted that Jim Furbush, who edits one of my favorite sites The Sly Oyster, offered me the opportunity to guest blog on his site. Jim shares my love of witty commentary on pop culture, so writing for the Sly Oyster is great exposure for me given our similar audiences. You may read my Sly Oyster columns here.

I discovered the second site via one of my favorite tweeters @classicbookmags, who had posted a forum link discussing "Do you have a favorite classic novel?" on 20 Something Bloggers. Intrigued by the topic as well as the site, I could not resist joining. (By the way, my favorite classics are Catcher in the Rye, Animal Farm, Fahrenheit 451 and 1984.)

I've only been a member of 20 Something Bloggers for two days, but have had a great experience with it so far, and recommend it to anyone interested in connecting with other writers. The site reminds me a bit of MySpace without the ads, and every member genuinely wants to be a part of the writing community. I look forward to befriending others who share my love of writing and can provide me with feedback on my work. I've actually gotten some great comments already, including advice that I include the Snoopy picture you see above.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

My writing tends toward light-heartedness in tone and subject matter. Yet I realize that if I really want to make a difference through writing, I need to tackle more serious issues when appropriate.

I am saddened and angered that bullying has resulted in several teen suicides over the past few weeks. While I have felt insecure and lonely at various times throughout my life, most strongly in my adolescence, I know these feelings are minor compared to those experienced by victims of bullying. While I couldn't be more moved if my writing can help those struggling in the smallest way, my dream is for these issues to be overcome completely.

I've written two previous posts about a group of bloggers who act out the Glee storyline with meticulous accuracy, and how much fun I've had reading their posts. Yet it was it was a post from the Rachel Berry ghostwriter addressing the issue of bullying that blew me away. Her message included a link to another writer's story of how her family was affected by bullying, whom I also commend for speaking up, and links to resources for those who may be struggling. I also mention that several of the other ghostwriters shared a link to the post. I think of how many people are fans of Glee that could be inspired and helped by this group's efforts, and am so impressed with them and other individuals and organizations speaking out against bullying.

Please help eliminate this problem once and for all, most importantly by treating everyone you meet with respect and being there for those you care about. Thank you.